Abstract
Background: The authors present a technical variation of the standard cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass perfusion during hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion (ILP) procedures in selected patients with unresectable soft tissue sarcoma or malignant melanoma. Patients: Of 55 ILP procedures performed at our institution since the procedure was established in 2009, nine were performed at the upper extremity.
Standard single venous cannulation was used in five cases, and extended, double venous cannulation in the last four. The standard technique for brachial vein cannulation in a small compartment of the upper extremity entails a problematic and longer perfusion of the upper extremity.
This is due to the lower flow rate in the venous system and relatively large surface area with respect to weight. We present a simple technique based on a "Y" cannulation of the venous system via the deep brachial vein and superficial venous system via the basilic vein, delivering a 20% increase in flow rate in the extracorporeal circulation.
Faster heating of the upper extremity and a stable thermal environment throughout upper-extremity ILP are essential for successful treatment. Conclusion: Extended technique of venous cannulation for extracorporeal circulation setting, due to their advantages, became standard in the upper limb ILP procedure at our institution.